31 MPG combined is what the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.5L offers: adequate. This isn’t a hybrid aiming for groundbreaking efficiency, nor is it a performance sedan focused on horsepower above all else. It’s a mainstream mid-size sedan designed for reliable, comfortable transportation, and the fuel economy reflects that. Its target audience values affordability and dependability, and the Altima meets those needs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Altima 2.5L at 27 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. These figures come from several design choices. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while not exceptionally powerful, provides enough power for daily driving without consuming too much fuel. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) also has a significant role. CVTs are known for keeping the engine operating efficiently, constantly adjusting the gear ratio for optimal fuel consumption. The Altima’s aerodynamics and relatively light weight for its class also help its efficiency, particularly on the highway where wind resistance is a major factor.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.5L at $1,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the roads you drive on, and local gasoline prices. The $1,400 estimate gives you a benchmark to compare the Altima’s fuel consumption to other vehicles. Remember this estimate, along with all all Nissan fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Several factors affect what you’ll achieve. Aggressive driving, frequent stop-and-go traffic, and carrying heavy loads all decrease fuel efficiency.

On the other hand, gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you match or exceed the EPA estimates. Some drivers report achieving highway figures slightly above 38 MPG in ideal conditions, especially on longer trips. Expect the city MPG to change depending on traffic.

How it compares

The mid-size sedan segment is competitive, and fuel economy is important to many buyers. The Toyota Camry LE, a top seller, gets an EPA-estimated 32 MPG combined. The Honda Accord LX also gets 32 MPG combined. The Hyundai Sonata SE also gets 32 MPG combined. The Altima’s 31 MPG is close, but not class-leading. Even if it’s not the most fuel-efficient, the Altima’s value, comfort, and available features help its appeal. See more about ALTIMA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is critical for maximizing fuel economy in the Altima. The CVT works best when the engine is operating smoothly. Avoid quick acceleration, which uses more fuel. Watch traffic and maintain a steady pace when possible.

Tire pressure affects fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, and the engine works harder, consuming more fuel.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and restarting uses less fuel than idling.

Use cruise control on the highway when safe. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which reduces fuel consumption changes. This is effective on long, flat stretches where you can maintain a constant speed.

Regular maintenance is essential for fuel economy. Keep your engine tuned, your air filter clean, and your oil changed as recommended. A well-maintained engine runs efficiently and consumes less fuel.